CSC seize over $120k in contraband at Collins Bay Institution

Correctional Services of Canada (CSC) officials say they have made a major seizure of contraband at Collins Bay Institution.

“On Wednesday, Dec. 23 2020 at approximately 11:00, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, multiple packages containing contraband were seized on the perimeter of Collins Bay institution, a multi-level security facility,” said Mike Shrider, Communications Manager at CSC Regional Headquarters, in a press release.

According to Shrider, the contraband seized included tobacco, drugs, cell phones, and stabbing weapons, with a total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $121,440.

The Correctional Service of Canada introduced a complete smoking ban in all federal correctional institutions in 2008.

“CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions,” said the release.

CSC says it uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions, including ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates and visitors.

CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates and staff members working at CSC institutions.

The toll-free number, 1-866-780-3784, has been set up to allow citizens to provide this information in a way that is protected and that ensures callers remain anonymous.